Atypical Location of Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a chronic itch condition, severely impacting many patients' quality of life. The burden of this condition has been referred to as debilitating, which can lead to a sequela of chronic anxiety, depression, and stress. LSC is characterized by intractable scratching and manipulation of the skin, resulting in symmetrically thickened, scaly plaques. LSC is extremely common and is one of the most common dermatological chief complaints in clinics. This case report highlights a 68-year-old male patient presenting for an evaluation of eczema on his back associated with unrelenting pruritus in a location that he could not reach, ultimately diagnosed as LSC upon histological evaluation. Patients can experience severe suffering from chronic itching, often compared to that of chronic pain conditions. Because of this, this case emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment and to suspect LSC in hyperpigmented pruritic plaques, regardless of bodily location.